The ABCs of Uses of Special Needs Trust Monies

“The ABCs of Uses of Special Needs Trust Monies”

By Dennis C. McAndrews, Esquire

As most practitioners now realize, Special Needs Trusts are intended to provide for “supplemental” needs of a beneficiary with disabilities beyond ordinary food, clothing, and rent payments. In most cases, it is anticipated that these basic necessities will be provided through Social Security payments for other public programs (such as Supplemental Security Income), and that the Special Needs Trust will provide supplemental needs to enhance the quality of life of the beneficiary with disabilities.

Some of the most common purchases which can be made from a Special Needs Trust include a motor vehicle (adapted if necessary to meet the needs of the individual with disabilities), a residence (typically titled in the name of the Trust), furniture, computer/electronic equipment, and entertainment expenses. However, various other goods and services may be purchased from the Special Needs Trust for the individual with disabilities, and it can be useful to possess a checklist of some of these items. The following list represents the “ABCs” of the common uses of proceeds of a Special Needs Trust.

• Architectural modification to residence owned by Trust or Beneficiary to

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